Novak Djokovic found himself impressed by Steve Smith’s tennis prowess during an exhibition event at Melbourne Park. The Australian cricket star showcased his tennis skills while sharing the court with the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Smith’s competitive spirit was on full display at the Rod Laver Arena, captivating the audience.
As part of the charity matches leading up to the Australian Open, scheduled to begin on January 14, Novak Djokovic was joined by Steve Smith and Australian middle-distance runner Peter Bol, among other stars.”
Game respects game!
(And Novak is just like the rest of us when it comes to Smudge…)@stevesmith49 • @DjokerNole • #AusOpen • #AO2024 pic.twitter.com/ioL8hjVSrF
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 11, 2024
During their exhibition match, Novak Djokovic delivered a soft serve directed at Steve Smith’s body. Displaying remarkable footwork, the Australian cricketer skillfully evaded the ball and executed a return that landed perfectly inside the court. Djokovic, genuinely impressed, chose not to play another shot. In acknowledgment of Smith’s incredible return, the Serbian tennis champion praised him, even bowing down in admiration
Is it too late to add him to the test squad?! From the sounds of it the selectors are open to trying things out…@DjokerNole • #AusOpen • #AO2024 pic.twitter.com/VAJq2KFShr
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 11, 2024
Djokovic also ventured into cricket, attempting to emulate Smith’s tennis skills. However, the Serbian tennis star’s cross-batted shot missed the mark. Nevertheless, when Djokovic traded the cricket bat for a tennis racket, the ball soared into the crowd at Melbourne Park.”
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Novak Djokovic is set to kick off his title defense at the Australian Open against a pre-qualifier as he seeks his record-extending 25th Grand Slam victory. The tennis superstar is anticipated to potentially face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarter-finals. Djokovic claimed three out of four Grand Slam titles last year, missing out on Wimbledon. This year, he has his eyes set on achieving a Golden Slam, with plans to compete in the Paris Olympics.
Meanwhile, in the cricket world, Steve Smith is preparing for the opening batsman’s role in Test cricket, having volunteered to fill the position vacated by David Warner, who retired from the format after the 3-Test series against Pakistan in January. Additionally, Smith has been appointed as the captain for the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies, following the decision of senior selectors to rest Pat Cummins
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